Thunder 7-1 in SFL in girls tennis

Rocklin High’s varsity girls tennis team is 7-1 in Sierra Foothill League competition.
Following a 5-4 win over Del Oro, the Thunder traveled to Nevada Union to face a rejuvenated Miner program that returned their entire singles roster from a year ago.
“It’s always fun for me going up to play my alma matter,” Rocklin coach Dale Eckenburg said. “They almost beat us last year so I knew it was going to be a fight. They all know I went to NU so they want to beat us.”
Rocklin, which won 7-2, set a tone of ball control and sound mechanics early on in the match. Isabel Lopez turned in her most impressive performance of the year, according to Eckenburg, winning her match while battling the flu.
“Isabel showed why she was accepted to attend the Navel Academy next year,” Eckenburg said. “She’s the toughest girl I’ve ever had. Perseverance, leadership, personality, academics, and more importantly, community involvement.”
Rocklin’s Jamie Nakagawa matched Lopez’ fight after battling for 2 ½ hours to win in three sets while Cortnei Chance only need 40 minutes to dispatch her opponent 6-2, 6-2.
In doubles action, Rocklin’s Shannon Peiffer and Becca Kinsey finished off their match 6-0, 6-4 while Amber Beebe and Jessica Miller added the seventh victory (6-3, 6-2).
With seniors Stefanie Studen and Jessey Clarke leading the way, the Thunder winning streak was pushed to seven with wins over Roseville (8-1) and Woodcreek (7-2).
“Were in a great position to make the playoffs,” Eckenburg said. “We need to continue to stay focused and improve our skills, especially in doubles.”